The colder months are here! This Christmas, bring out the blankets, hot chocolate, and treats, push your little one’s bedtime a little, and enjoy these heartwarming movies as a family.
Ho ho ho! Christmas is near – ‘tis the season to decorate the house, play Christmas carols all day long, adorn the tree, and feel all the warm, fuzzy feelings! This also means we have many treats ready, our festive moods are uplifted, and we are ready to embrace what is, hands down, the best season of the year! Do you have a special holiday tradition that you celebrate with your family? If not, why not let watching a Christmas Eve movie become a standing tradition for you and your little ones?
Bring out the pillows, blankets, and popcorn, and cozy up together to watch one of these classic movies this Christmas Eve.
1. Klaus (2019)
(Netflix Animation, Sergio Pablos Animation Studios, Atresmedia Centre)
Rating: 7.8/10
Watch on: Netflix
This story takes place in the faraway town of Smeerenburg, above the Arctic Circle, where Jesper – the Postal Academy's worst student – is stationed. The people in the town don't interact with each other and live in anger and solitude. Jesper hates living in the town and is about to leave it for good when he finds a friend in a local teacher, Alva. Together, they find Klaus, a mysterious carpenter who lives alone in a house full of toys! The three of them form a bond that could bring a new sense of hope, joy, and cheer to the town of Smeerenburg. But does it? Get comfortable, and watch this movie with your little ones to find out!
2. The Grinch (2018)
(Universal Pictures, Illumination)
Rating: 6.3/10
Watch on: Apple TV
Christmas – the best time of the year, indeed. Not for the Grinch! This movie tells the story of a cynical grump who hates Christmas, and all the festivity and cheer that comes with it. He lives in a home away from the main town of Whoville, and cannot stand the joy of people around Christmas. As a result, he makes an evil plan, with his dog Max, to ruin Christmas for everyone in Whoville. That is until he crosses paths with a little girl, Cindy Lou. Is Cindy Lou's warmth and childish innocence enough to turn the Grinch's heart around? Bring all the popcorn and treats, and find out. This movie has the perfect balance of emotions and suspense, and is a must-watch with your little ones this Christmas!
3. Frozen (2013 Onwards)
(Walt Disney Pictures, Walt Disney Animation Studios)
Rating: 7.4/10
Watch on: Disney Hotstar
Princess Elsa of the Arendelle kingdom was born with the power to control ice and snow. After unintentionally putting her younger sister Anna in danger, she struggles to hide her powers for many years. A decade later, she accidently uses her powers to put her kingdom through a perpetual winter, and as a result, isolates herself. This movie tells the heartwarming story of how Anna befriends a rugged mountain man and his reindeer, and embarks upon a journey to find her sister and free her of her guilt. Through the movie, your little ones will meet delightful new characters, including Olaf – the lovable, magical snowman, and they will encounter magic, thrill, and bucket loads of fun!
4. The Chronicles of Narnia (2005 Onwards)
(Walt Disney Pictures)
Rating: 6.9/10
Watch on: Amazon Prime Video
This movie series is suitable for older children. It follows the adventures of four young siblings – Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy – in the magical land of Narnia, discovered beyond the back wall of a wardrobe! The series revolves around the time they spend in Narnia, guided by their king Aslan, a wise and powerful lion. This is a three-part movie series, adapted from the collection of books by the same name by C. S. Lewis, and is a must-watch for older children who love fantasy, fairy tales, and adventure.
5. The Polar Express (2004)
(Warner Bros. Pictures)
Rating: 6.6/10
Watch on: Amazon Prime Video
All aboard the Polar Express! This story revolves around the quest of a young boy to meet Santa Claus. On Christmas Eve, a boy who is old enough to start questioning the myth of Santa, embarks on an adventure to the North Pole. On his journey, he meets different people, makes friends, and learns all about the Spirit of Christmas. This is a heartwarming, feel-good story for children to explore the wonders of Christmas, and get lost in an enchanting world where anything is possible!
6. Home Alone (1990 Onwards)
(20th Century Studios - The Walt Disney Company)
Rating: 7.7/10
Watch on: Amazon Prime Video
Left home alone on Christmas Eve? What on earth will Kevin do for Christmas? This is a rip-roaring adventure series about Kevin, who is left alone at home, or somewhere by himself, almost every Christmas. Follow the adventures of little Kevin McCallister and have your little ones sit at the edge of their seats (or beanbags), and celebrate as he overcomes fear, and gleefully embraces being his own person!
Many of you may have seen these movies already, but watch them again with your little ones, delight in their gleeful reactions, and have a truly wonderful, and joyous Christmas with your whole family!